Optical module connector

Abstract

This invention discloses an optical module connector, comprising: a main housing; an unlocking member pivotally connected to the main housing, the unlocking member including a driving portion and a locking portion located on both sides of its pivot axis; a sliding member capable of cooperating with the driving portion of the unlocking member; and a tail sleeve capable of sliding relative to the main housing in an unlocking direction or a locking direction. When the tail sleeve slides relative to the main housing in the unlocking direction, the tail sleeve drives the sliding member to press against the driving portion, causing the unlocking member to pivot around its pivot axis to an unlocked position; when the tail sleeve slides relative to the main housing in the locking direction, the unlocking member can be driven to pivot around its pivot axis to a locked position. The connector of this invention, by sliding the tail sleeve, allows the unlocking member to adaptively rotate around its pivot axis, enabling rapid locking and unlocking of the connector. Compared to push-button type optical module connectors, it can minimize accidental contact with adjacent connectors, thereby ensuring accurate installation and removal of the target connector and better adapting to the needs of high-density optical module scenarios.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of optical communication technology, and specifically relates to an optical module connector. Background Technology

[0002] With the widespread application of 800G, 1.6T, and higher-speed optical modules, and the ever-increasing demands of data centers for panel port density, the integration of optical modules is continuously improving to enhance data transmission rates and capacity. Optical modules achieve higher transmission rates by increasing the number of channels, which places more stringent requirements on the matching optical module connectors. Currently, when push-button connectors are densely arranged, pressing the unlocking arm of one connector may accidentally contact an adjacent connector, causing the non-target connector to detach unexpectedly.

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to provide an optical module connector to address the aforementioned technical problems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide an optical module connector that can solve the problem that push-button connectors may accidentally fall off due to accidental contact.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, a specific embodiment of the present invention provides an optical module connector, comprising: a main housing; an unlocking member pivotally connected to the main housing, the unlocking member including a driving portion and a locking portion located on both sides of its pivot axis; a sliding member capable of cooperating with the driving portion of the unlocking member; and a tail sleeve capable of sliding relative to the main housing in an unlocking direction or a locking direction.

[0006] Specifically, when the tail sleeve slides relative to the main housing along the unlocking direction, the tail sleeve drives the sliding member to press against the driving part, so that the unlocking member pivots around its pivot axis to the unlocking position; when the tail sleeve slides relative to the main housing along the locking direction, the unlocking member can be driven to pivot around its pivot axis to the locking position.

[0007] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the optical module connector further includes a cover connected to the main housing, and the driving part is received between the cover and the main housing;

[0008] The main housing or the cover is provided with an elastic abutment arm that can cooperate with the drive unit. The abutment arm presses against the drive unit to make the unlocking member tend to pivot about its pivot axis to the locking position.

[0009] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the optical module connector further includes a cover connected to the main housing, and the driving part is received between the cover and the main housing;

[0010] A first elastic element is also provided between the cover and the driving part, and the first elastic element has the tendency to drive the unlocking element to pivot about its pivot axis to the locking position.

[0011] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, a second elastic member is further provided between the locking part and the main housing, the second elastic member having a tendency to drive the unlocking member to pivot about its pivot axis to the locking position.

[0012] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the optical module connector further includes a cover connected to the main housing, and the driving part is received between the cover and the main housing;

[0013] The unlocking component includes a shaft portion that is fitted to the main housing. The shaft portion is fitted with a torsion spring. The torsion spring includes two abutment portions that abut against the cover and the unlocking component respectively, so that the unlocking component has a tendency to pivot about its pivot axis to the locking position.

[0014] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, an avoidance hole is provided at the end of the slider away from the tail sleeve;

[0015] When the unlocking member is in the locked position, at least a portion of the driving part is received within the clearance hole;

[0016] As the unlocking member pivots from the locked position to the unlocked position, the driving part gradually disengages from the clearance hole.

[0017] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the side of the driving part facing the main housing is provided with a guide surface;

[0018] When the tail sleeve slides relative to the main housing along the unlocking direction, the edge of the clearance hole abuts against the guide surface, so that the unlocking member pivots around its pivot axis to the unlocking position.

[0019] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the edge of the clearance hole that abuts against the guide surface may be provided with a chamfer.

[0020] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the unlocking member further includes a stop portion located at one end of the drive portion away from the pivot shaft, the stop portion protruding toward the clearance hole;

[0021] When the unlocking member is in the locked position, the stop portion passes through the clearance hole to abut against the main housing.

[0022] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the unlocking member includes a first body portion and a second body portion disposed at an angle, the driving portion is formed in the first body portion, and the locking portion protrudes from the second body portion;

[0023] When the unlocking component is in the locked position, the second body portion is approximately parallel to the unlocking direction or the locking direction.

[0024] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, a mounting space for mounting the unlocking member is recessed on one side surface of the main housing;

[0025] When the unlocking member is in the locked position, at least a portion of the locking part extends out of the mounting space;

[0026] When the unlocking component is in the unlocked position, the locking part is housed within the installation space.

[0027] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the main housing includes at least a pair of first limiting portions spaced apart, and the tail sleeve includes a second limiting portion that cooperates with the first limiting portions;

[0028] When the tail sleeve slides relative to the main housing in the unlocking direction, the first limiting part abuts against the second limiting part to prevent the tail sleeve from detaching from the main housing.

[0029] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the optical module connector further includes a cover connected to the main housing, and the driving part is received between the cover and the main housing;

[0030] The unlocking component includes a shaft portion that is fitted and installed with the main housing, and the inner wall of the cover is provided with an arc surface suitable for pressing the shaft portion.

[0031] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the sliding member includes a main body and a snap-fit ​​portion disposed at one end of the main body, and the tail sleeve has a first receiving groove and a second receiving groove that are interconnected, the extending directions of the first receiving groove and the second receiving groove intersect, and the extending direction of the first receiving groove is parallel to the unlocking direction or the locking direction.

[0032] At least a portion of the main body is housed in the first receiving groove, the snap-fit ​​portion is housed in the second receiving groove, and the snap-fit ​​portion abuts against the inner wall of the second receiving groove in the unlocking direction or the locking direction.

[0033] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the optical module connector further includes a cover connected to the main housing, and the driving part is received between the cover and the main housing;

[0034] One of the main housing and the cover is provided with a protrusion, and the other is provided with a groove. The protrusion can be engaged with the groove to fix the cover to the main housing.

[0035] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the optical module connector further includes a front housing, the front housing including a first abutting surface, and the main housing including a second abutting surface abutting against the first abutting surface, wherein both the first abutting surface and the second abutting surface intersect the insertion direction of the front housing and the main housing.

[0036] Compared to existing technologies, the optical module connector of this invention can be connected to an adapter. When unlocked from the adapter, by sliding the tail sleeve along the unlocking direction, a sliding member can be moved and engage with the driving part of the unlocking member, causing the unlocking member to pivot around its pivot axis to the unlocking position, thereby disengaging the locking part of the unlocking member from the adapter and achieving the unlocking function. When sliding the tail sleeve along the locking direction, the unlocking member can be driven to pivot around its pivot axis to the locking position, thereby causing the locking part of the unlocking member to engage with the adapter. Therefore, by pushing and pulling the tail sleeve, the unlocking member can be adaptively rotated around its pivot axis, achieving the connector's quick locking and unlocking functions. Compared to push-type optical module connectors, the push-pull tail sleeve can minimize the occurrence of accidental contact with adjacent connectors, thereby ensuring accurate installation and removal of the target connector and better adapting to the needs of high-density optical module scenarios. Attached Figure Description

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of an optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the unlocking component of the optical module connector in the locked position according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0042] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the unlocking component of the optical module connector in the unlocking position according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the main housing of the optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the main housing of the optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the unlocking component of the optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the sliding component of an optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cover of the optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first elastic element of the optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention, which is a compression spring;

[0049] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first elastic element of the optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention, which is configured as a spring piece;

[0050] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a second elastic element of the optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention, which is configured as a compression spring;

[0051] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the second elastic element of the optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention, which is configured as a spring piece;

[0052] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an optical module connector with a torsion spring in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the torsion spring of the optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the tail sleeve of the optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the tail sleeve of the optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the ferrule assembly of an optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 20 This is a side view of the front housing of the optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the optical module connector socket in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the front housing and the main housing of the optical module connector in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Explanation of key figure labels:

[0061] 1. Main housing; 11. Mounting space; 12. Shaft hole; 13. First limiting part; 14. Snap-fit ​​arm; 15. Protrusion; 16. Second abutment surface; 17. Elastic abutment arm; 2. Unlocking component; 21. Shaft body; 22. Drive part; 221. Guide surface; 23. Locking part; 24. Stop part; 25. First body part; 26. Second body part; 3. Sliding component; 31. Clearance hole; 32. Main body part; 33. Snap-fit ​​part; 4. Tail sleeve; 41. Second limiting part; 42. First... 43. Receiving groove; 5. Second receiving groove; 64. Cover; 55. Groove; 56. Arc surface; 67. First elastic element; 68. Second elastic element; 69. Torsion spring; 60.1. Abutting part; 71. Front housing; 72. First abutting surface; 73. Abutting plate; 84. Plug assembly; 85. Outer shell; 86. Fiber array; 87. Plug hole; 98. Base; 99. Base body; 90. Plug rod; 101. Spring; 102. Metal ring; 103. Pressure ring; 104. Heat shrink tubing; 105. Cable sheath. Detailed Implementation

[0062] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions in this disclosure, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this disclosure, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0063] With the increasing demands for panel port density in data centers and the widespread application of 800G, 1.6T, and higher-speed optical modules, the integration level of optical modules continues to improve. To enhance data transmission rates and capacity, optical modules achieve higher transmission rates by increasing the number of channels, which places more stringent requirements on the matching optical module connectors.

[0064] Currently, when the widely used push-button connectors are densely arranged, if an operator presses the unlocking arm of one connector, the unlocking mechanism of an adjacent connector may be accidentally triggered due to the deviation of the finger or tool. This can cause the non-target connector to fall out of the adapter, seriously affecting the stability of the system and maintenance efficiency.

[0065] Based on the above-mentioned technical problems, this application proposes an optical module connector, the basic concept of which is to replace the press-type unlocking arm with a push-pull tail sleeve operation, and to transform the translational push-pull action into the pivoting action of the unlocking component, so as to realize the connector's rapid unlocking and reset locking.

[0066] Specifically, the optical module connector includes a main housing, an unlocking component pivotally connected to the main housing, a sliding component that engages with the unlocking component, and a tail sleeve that slides relative to the main housing. The unlocking component has a driving part and a locking part on either side of its pivot axis. When the operator pulls the tail sleeve in the unlocking direction, the tail sleeve moves the sliding component, which presses against the driving part of the unlocking component, forcing the unlocking component to pivot around its pivot axis to the unlocking position, thereby disengaging the locking part from the adapter and unlocking. When the operator pushes the tail sleeve in the locking direction, the unlocking component can be driven to pivot in the opposite direction around its pivot axis to the locking position, and the locking part engages with the adapter to complete the locking. Through these push-pull actions, the entire operation is performed only along the axial direction of the connector, avoiding lateral pressing actions. This significantly reduces accidental contact and interference with adjacent connectors in densely packed optical module scenarios, enabling precise and reliable assembly and disassembly operations.

[0067] The optical module connector of this application will be described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0068] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment of the present invention, the optical module connector includes a main housing 1, an unlocking component 2, a sliding component 3, and a tail sleeve 4.

[0069] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The main housing 1 is used for mounting various structures, and the unlocking component 2 is pivotally connected to the main housing 1. In this embodiment, a mounting space 11 for mounting the unlocking component 2 is recessed on one side surface of the main housing 1, which allows for the installation of the unlocking component 2 and provides it with a margin of movement. In other embodiments, the main housing 1 may not have the aforementioned mounting space 11, and the unlocking component 2 may be pivotally connected to one side surface of the main housing 1, which can also realize the corresponding locking and unlocking functions.

[0070] Please refer to Figures 4 to 8 In one embodiment, the unlocking component 2 includes a shaft portion 21 that mates with the main housing 1. A shaft hole 12 may be provided on the main housing 1 to enable pivoting of the unlocking component 2. In other embodiments, the unlocking component 2 may not have a shaft portion 21. Instead, a separate pivot shaft may be designed, which is fixedly connected to the unlocking component 2 and pivotally connected to the main housing 1, thus enabling pivoting of the unlocking component 2 to the main housing 1. This application does not impose any limitations on this aspect.

[0071] Please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 8 as well as Figure 10 In one embodiment, the optical module connector further includes a cover 5 connected to the main housing 1, with a drive unit 22 housed between the cover 5 and the main housing 1. The unlocking member 2 includes a shaft portion 21 that mates with the main housing 1, and the inner wall of the cover 5 is provided with an arc surface 52 suitable for pressing the shaft portion 21. After the cover 5 and the main housing 1 are assembled, the arc surface 52 presses down on the shaft portion 21 of the unlocking member 2 from above, firmly confining it within the shaft hole 12 of the main housing 1. The arc surface 52 design provides uniform contact pressure, preventing the shaft portion 21 from jumping or tilting during rotation, ensuring the smoothness of the pivoting movement of the unlocking member 2 and the accuracy of its position.

[0072] Please refer to Figures 3 to 8 The unlocking component 2 includes a driving portion 22 and a locking portion 23 located on both sides of its pivot axis. The driving portion 22 extends towards the tail sleeve 4, while the locking portion 23 extends away from the tail sleeve 4 and is used to engage with the adapter. The sliding member 3 can cooperate with the driving portion 22 of the unlocking component 2, allowing the tail sleeve 4 to slide relative to the main housing 1 in either the unlocking or locking direction. The specific unlocking direction can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 3 The X-axis corresponds to the direction in the image; for details on locking the direction, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 3 The direction corresponding to the Y-axis. Specifically, when the tail sleeve 4 slides relative to the main housing 1 along the unlocking direction, the tail sleeve 4 drives the sliding member 3 to press against the driving part 22, causing the unlocking member 2 to unlock around its pivot axis (the unlocking position of the unlocking member 2 is as follows). Figure 5 (As shown) Pivot; when the tail sleeve 4 slides relative to the main housing 1 in the locking direction, the unlocking element 2 can be driven to lock in position about its pivot axis (the locked position of the unlocking element 2 is as shown). Figure 3 (As shown) pivot.

[0073] Specifically, the sliding member 3 can be disposed between the main housing 1 and the tail sleeve 4, with one end forming a linkage with the tail sleeve 4, and the other end being disposed opposite to the driving part 22 of the unlocking member 2. The tail sleeve 4 is fitted onto the tail of the main housing 1 and can slide relative to the main housing 1 in the unlocking direction (i.e., the direction away from the adapter) or the locking direction (i.e., the direction closer to the adapter). In this embodiment, when the unlocking member 2 is in the locked position, at least a portion of the locking part 23 extends out of the mounting space 11 (e.g., ...). Figure 3 (As shown); when the unlocking member 2 is in the unlocked position, the locking part 23 is accommodated within the mounting space 11 (as shown). Figure 5 (As shown).

[0074] In the initial state, the unlocking element 2 is in the locked position, and the locking part 23 extends out of the mounting space 11 of the main housing 1 and engages with the corresponding slot of the adapter, thereby firmly locking the connector inside the adapter. When unlocking is required, the operator pinches the tail sleeve 4 and pulls it in the unlocking direction (i.e., away from the adapter). The tail sleeve 4 moves the sliding element 3 along with it. During the movement, the sliding element 3 contacts the driving part 22 of the unlocking element 2 and applies resistance. After being subjected to force, the driving part 22 drives the unlocking element 2 to rotate around its pivot axis, causing the locking part 23 to retract into the mounting space 11, thereby achieving quick unlocking of the connector.

[0075] When the tail sleeve 4 is pushed in the locking direction (i.e. the direction closer to the adapter), the unlocking member 2 can be driven by other reset structures inside the connector, causing the unlocking member 2 to pivot around its pivot axis to the locked position, and the locking part 23 extends out again and engages with the adapter, thereby completing the locking of the connector.

[0076] Therefore, the optical module connector of this application achieves the unlocking and locking functions through push-pull operation. It only requires axial force, and the operator's hand or tools do not need to move to the side. Thus, on the panel with densely arranged optical modules, it can effectively avoid touching the unlocking mechanism of adjacent connectors, significantly reducing the risk of accidental disengagement, and is particularly suitable for maintenance needs in high-density port scenarios.

[0077] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 9 The sliding member 3 has a clearance hole 31 at the end away from the tail sleeve 4. When the unlocking member 2 is in the locked position, at least a portion of the driving part 22 is housed within the clearance hole 31. When the unlocking member 2 pivots from the locked position to the unlocked position, the driving part 22 gradually disengages from the clearance hole 31. Therefore, when the tail sleeve 4 slides relative to the main housing 1 in the unlocking direction, the sliding member 3 moves accordingly, and the edge of the clearance hole 31 abuts against the driving part 22, applying a thrust to the driving part 22. As the sliding member 3 continues to move, the driving part 22 begins to rotate around the pivot axis under the thrust, synchronously driving the locking part 23 to rotate around the pivot axis and disengage from the adapter, ultimately allowing the unlocking member 2 to rotate to the unlocked position.

[0078] Please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 8 and Figure 9Specifically, the driving part 22 has a guide surface 221 on the side facing the main housing 1. When the tail sleeve 4 slides relative to the main housing 1 in the unlocking direction, the edge of the clearance hole 31 abuts against the guide surface 221, causing the unlocking member 2 to pivot around its pivot axis to the unlocking position. The guide surface 221 can be an inclined surface, an arc surface, or a gradually curved surface. When the tail sleeve 4 slides relative to the main housing 1 in the unlocking direction, the edge of the clearance hole 31 first contacts the guide surface 221. As the sliding member 3 moves, the edge slides relative to the guide surface 221, smoothly converting the linear motion of the sliding member 3 into the rotational motion of the driving part 22, ultimately causing the unlocking member 2 to rotate to the unlocking position.

[0079] Please refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 In one optional embodiment, the edge of the clearance hole 31 that abuts against the guide surface 221 may be chamfered. This chamfer may be a rounded corner or a beveled corner, and this application does not limit this. When the slider 3 pushes the drive unit 22, the chamfered edge of the hole can make the slider 3 drive the drive unit 22 move more smoothly, and make the force required for the push-pull operation more uniform and convenient.

[0080] Please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 8 In one optional embodiment, the unlocking member 2 further includes a stop portion 24 located at the end of the driving part 22 away from the pivot axis, the stop portion 24 protruding toward the clearance hole 31; when the unlocking member 2 is in the locked position, the stop portion 24 passes through the clearance hole 31 to abut against the main housing 1. When the unlocking member 2 pivots back to the locked position, the stop portion 24 moves along with the driving part 22 as it gradually enters the clearance hole 31. When the unlocking member 2 reaches the locked position, the stop portion 24 passes through the clearance hole 31 and abuts against the hole wall behind it or directly against the corresponding surface of the main housing 1. The physical stop formed by the abutment can prevent the unlocking member 2 from continuing to pivot, thereby accurately positioning it in the locked position. Therefore, by providing the stop portion 24, the rotation angle of the unlocking member 2 can be prevented from being too large, thereby achieving accurate positioning of the locked position.

[0081] Please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 5 ,as well as Figures 11 to 16 To ensure that the unlocking component 2 can automatically and stably remain in the locked position after the unlocking operation is completed, this application provides various reset drive structures. The reset drive structures are described below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0082] Please refer to Figures 3 to 5In this embodiment, the optical module connector further includes a cover 5 connected to the main housing 1, and a drive unit 22 is housed between the cover 5 and the main housing 1. The main housing 1 or the cover 5 is provided with an elastic abutment arm 17 that can cooperate with the drive unit 22. The elastic abutment arm 17 presses against the drive unit 22, causing the unlocking member 2 to have a tendency to pivot about its pivot axis to a locked position. The elastic abutment arm 17 is preferably a cantilevered spring structure that extends integrally from the side wall of the cover 5 or the main housing 1. When the unlocking member 2 is in the locked position, the abutment arm presses against the surface of the drive unit 22. When the tail sleeve 4 moves in the unlocking direction, the sliding member 3 can overcome the elastic potential energy of the elastic abutment arm 17 by cooperating with the guide surface 221, causing it to undergo elastic deformation, thereby allowing the unlocking member 2 to be located in the unlocked position. When the tension on the tail sleeve 4 is released, the elastic potential energy accumulated by the abutment arm can press against the drive unit 22, thereby driving the unlocking member 2 to automatically pivot about its pivot axis to the locked position. With the setting of the elastic abutment arm 17, the unlocking part 2 can be automatically returned to its original position without additional operation steps, ensuring that the connector is always locked in the non-operational state, thus improving the reliability of the connection.

[0083] The elastic abutment arm 17 can be integrally formed with the cover 5 or the main housing 1. Specifically, it can be disposed between the driving part 22 and the inner surface of the cover 5 to drive the unlocking member 2 to reset. In one embodiment, the cover 5 can also be provided with a deformation space for the elastic abutment arm 17 to move, so as to realize the reset function of the unlocking member 2.

[0084] Please refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12 In one optional embodiment, a first elastic element 61 is further provided between the cover 5 and the driving part 22. The first elastic element 61 has a tendency to drive the unlocking part 2 to pivot about its pivot axis to a locked position. The first elastic element 61 can be a compression spring (such as...). Figure 11 (as shown) or shrapnel (such as) Figure 12 As shown, it can be disposed between the inner wall of the cover 5 and the drive part 22. At the same time, a limiting structure, such as a mounting groove, can also be provided to fix the first elastic member 61.

[0085] In the locked state of the connector, the first elastic element 61 remains compressed, continuously applying an elastic force that drives the unlocking element 2 to pivot around its pivot axis to the locked position. When the unlocking element 2 is driven to the unlocked position by the sliding element 3, the driving part 22 further compresses the first elastic element 61; when the external force is removed, the first elastic element 61 releases its elastic force, pushing the driving part 22 to move in the opposite direction, causing the unlocking element 2 to return to the locked position. The use of an independent first elastic element 61 allows for flexible selection of its elastic force according to design requirements, ensuring a stable and reliable reset force.

[0086] Please refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 In one optional embodiment, a second elastic member 62 is further provided between the locking part 23 and the main housing 1. The second elastic member 62 has a tendency to drive the unlocking member 2 to pivot about its pivot axis to a locked position. Similarly, the second elastic member 62 can be a compression spring (such as...). Figure 13 (as shown) or shrapnel (such as) Figure 14 As shown, it can be disposed between the locking part 23 and the bottom wall of the mounting space 11 of the main housing 1. At the same time, a limiting structure, such as a mounting groove, can also be provided to fix the second elastic member 62.

[0087] In this embodiment, the second elastic element 62 acts directly on the locking part 23. When the unlocking part 2 pivots towards the unlocking position, the locking part 23 retracts into the mounting space 11, compressing the second elastic element 62. When the external force disappears, the second elastic element 62 extends, pushing the locking part 23 outward, thereby causing the unlocking part 2 to pivot towards the locking position as a whole. This method directly applies the reset force to the locking part 23, resulting in a short force transmission path and rapid response.

[0088] Please refer to Figure 15 and Figure 16 In one optional embodiment, the unlocking member 2 includes a shaft portion 21 that is fitted to the main housing 1. The shaft portion 21 is fitted with a torsion spring 63. The torsion spring 63 includes two abutting portions 631, which abut against the cover 5 and the unlocking member 2 respectively, so that the unlocking member 2 has a tendency to pivot around its pivot axis to a locked position.

[0089] Specifically, the torsion spring 63 has a certain pre-torsion angle after assembly, and the torsional torque it generates continuously acts on the unlocking member 2, causing the unlocking member 2 to tend to pivot around its pivot axis to the locked position. When the unlocking member 2 is driven to rotate towards the unlocked position by an external force, the torsion spring 63 further stores torsional energy; after the external force is removed, the restoring torque of the torsion spring 63 drives the unlocking member 2 to rotate in the opposite direction to reset. The torsion spring 63 has a compact structure and can directly apply torque to the pivot axis, making it suitable for providing a stable and linear reset force in a limited space.

[0090] It should be noted that, in addition to the above-mentioned method of using elastic structures, such as the elastic abutment arm 17, the first elastic element 61, the second elastic element 62, and the torsion spring, to reset the unlocking member 2 to the locked position, other embodiments may also utilize magnetic force to drive the unlocking member 2 to the locked position. This application does not impose any limitations on this method.

[0091] Please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 8 as well as Figure 9The unlocking member 2 includes a first body portion 25 and a second body portion 26 arranged at an angle. A driving portion 22 is formed in the first body portion 25, and a locking portion 23 protrudes from the second body portion 26. When the unlocking member 2 is in the locked position, the second body portion 26 is approximately parallel to the unlocking or locking direction. At this time, the first body portion 25 has an inclined angle with the unlocking or locking direction, so that the guide surface 221 of the driving portion 22 has an inclined angle with the unlocking or locking direction. This allows the unlocking member 2 to respond quickly in conjunction with the movement of the sliding member 3, driving the unlocking member 2 to pivot to the unlocked position.

[0092] Please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 7 , Figure 17 as well as Figure 18 The main housing 1 includes at least one pair of spaced-apart first limiting portions 13, and the tail sleeve 4 includes a second limiting portion 41 that cooperates with the first limiting portions 13. When the tail sleeve 4 slides relative to the main housing 1 in the unlocking direction, the first limiting portion 13 and the second limiting portion 41 abut against each other to prevent the tail sleeve 4 from detaching from the main housing 1. In this embodiment, when the tail sleeve 4 slides to a preset stroke, the unlocking member 2 can rotate to the unlocking position. At this time, the locking portion 23 is completely received in the installation space 11 and disengages from the adapter, allowing the connector to be pulled out of the adapter.

[0093] Specifically, the tail of the main housing 1 may be provided with at least a pair of spaced-apart snap-fit ​​arms 14, and a first limiting part 13 is provided on the snap-fit ​​arms 14. The tail sleeve 4 may be provided with a protruding second limiting part 41 inside, which cooperates with the first limiting part 13 to limit the maximum travel of the tail sleeve 4 in the unlocking direction, thereby preventing the tail sleeve 4 from detaching from the main housing 1 and causing the connector to fail.

[0094] Please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 9 as well as Figure 18 The sliding member 3 includes a main body 32 and a snap-fit ​​part 33 disposed at one end of the main body 32. The tail sleeve 4 has a first receiving groove 42 and a second receiving groove 43 that are interconnected. The extending directions of the first receiving groove 42 and the second receiving groove 43 intersect, and the extending direction of the first receiving groove 42 is parallel to the unlocking direction or the locking direction. At least a portion of the main body 32 is received in the first receiving groove 42, and the snap-fit ​​part 33 is received in the second receiving groove 43. The snap-fit ​​part 33 abuts against the inner wall of the second receiving groove 43 in the unlocking direction or the locking direction.

[0095] Preferably, the extending directions of the first receiving groove 42 and the second receiving groove 43 are perpendicular to each other. When the tail sleeve 4 moves in the unlocking direction or the locking direction, the engaging part 33 forms an abutment relationship with the inner wall of the second receiving groove 43 in the unlocking direction or the locking direction, thereby driving the sliding member 3 to move in the unlocking direction or the locking direction through the tail sleeve 4.

[0096] Please refer to Figure 6 and Figure 10 One of the main housing 1 and the cover 5 is provided with a protrusion 15, and the other is provided with a groove 51. The protrusion 15 can be snapped into the groove 51 to fix the cover 5 to the main housing 1. During assembly, the cover 5 is pressed onto the main housing 1, and the protrusion 15 can elastically deform and snap into the groove 51, thereby firmly fixing the cover 5 to the main housing 1. This snap-fit ​​connection method eliminates the need for fasteners such as screws, simplifies the assembly process, reduces costs, and provides a reliable connection that is easy to disassemble and maintain. In this embodiment, the main housing 1 is provided with the aforementioned protrusion 15, and the cover 5 is provided with the aforementioned groove 51. In other embodiments, the aforementioned groove 51 may also be provided in the main housing 1, and the aforementioned protrusion 15 may be provided in the cover 5; this application does not limit this.

[0097] Please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 22 The optical module connector also includes a front housing 7, which includes a first abutting surface 71, and a main housing 1, which includes a second abutting surface 16 that abuts against the first abutting surface 71. Both the first abutting surface 71 and the second abutting surface 16 intersect the insertion direction of the front housing 7 and the main housing 1. The first abutting surface 71 and the second abutting surface 16 can be perpendicular to or inclined to the insertion direction of the front housing 7 and the main housing 1. Specifically, the insertion direction refers to the direction in which the front housing 7 and the main housing 1 are inserted and installed. When the front housing 7 and the main housing 1 are assembled together, the first abutting surface 71 and the second abutting surface 16 fit together, which can precisely control the relative axial position of the front housing 7 and the main housing 1, preventing axial movement after insertion. When both the first abutting surface 71 and the second abutting surface 16 are inclined to the insertion direction of the front housing 7 and the main housing 1, they also have a foolproof function, limiting the front housing 7 to only being inserted into the main housing 1 in a preset posture, thus improving assembly efficiency. The front housing 7 can be locked to the main housing 1 via hook points and hook slots. Additionally, a groove located near the hook point allows tools to be inserted to abut against either the front housing 7 or the main housing 1, facilitating their separation.

[0098] Please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 19 The optical module connector also includes a ferrule assembly 8, which may specifically include a housing 81 and an optical fiber array 82. The housing 81 can be fitted into the front housing 7.

[0099] Among them, the insert assembly 8 can be a single row or multiple rows, and can be compatible with the MT full column arrangement.

[0100] Please refer to Figure 19 and Figure 20In one optional embodiment, the outer casing 81 is provided with multiple chamfers of different sizes, and the inner wall of the front casing 7 extends with multiple corresponding abutment plates 72. When the outer casing 81 is inserted into the front casing 7, the chamfers abut against the inner wall of the abutment plates 72. By providing the above-mentioned chamfers of different sizes and corresponding abutment plates 72, the foolproof insertion of the ferrule assembly 8 can be achieved. That is, when the chamfer and the abutment plate 72 do not match, the front end corresponding to the chamfer of the outer casing 81 will abut against the end face of the abutment surface, thereby preventing the ferrule assembly 8 from being inserted. For example, two types of chamfers can be provided on the outer casing 81, and corresponding abutment plates 72 can be provided on the inner wall of the front casing 7. The above is only an exemplary example and is not a limitation on its quantity and position.

[0101] Please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 19 as well as Figure 21 In one optional embodiment, the optical module connector may further include a socket 9 that mates with the ferrule assembly 8 and a spring 101 that mates with the socket 9. The socket 9 includes a body 91 and a plug-in rod 92. The outer shell 81 may also have a plug-in hole 83, and the plug-in rod 92 passes through the plug-in hole 83 to position the ferrule assembly 8. The socket 9 may be fixed inside the front housing 7 along with the ferrule assembly 8. The spring 101 passes through the front housing 7 and the main housing 1, and its two ends may respectively abut against the corresponding protruding structures on the inner walls of the socket 9 and the main housing 1 to apply an elastic force to the ferrule assembly 8 for insertion into the adapter.

[0102] Please refer to Figure 2 The optical module connector also includes structures such as a metal ring 102, a pressure ring 103, a heat shrink tubing 104, and a cable sheath 105. The main housing 1 can be integrally formed with the metal ring 102. The pressure ring 103 is crimped to the tail of the metal ring 102 with the Kevlar inside the cable sheath 105. The heat shrink tubing 104 hugs the tail of the pressure ring 103.

[0103] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product is in use, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly understood by those skilled in the art. They are only used to facilitate the description of the present invention and to simplify the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the present invention.

[0104] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0105] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should also be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used herein do not specifically refer to any order or sequence, nor are they intended to limit the present case; they are merely used to distinguish components or operations described using the same technical terms.

[0106] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this disclosure is not limited to the details of the exemplary embodiments described above, and that this disclosure can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, the embodiments should be considered in all respects as exemplary and non-limiting, and the scope of this disclosure is defined by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. Thus, all variations falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims are intended to be included within this disclosure. No reference numerals in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0107] Furthermore, it should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This narrative style is merely for clarity. Those skilled in the art should consider the specification as a whole, and the technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An optical module connector, characterized in that, include: Main shell (1); The unlocking component (2) is pivotally connected to the main housing (1), and the unlocking component (2) includes a driving part (22) and a locking part (23) located on both sides of its pivot axis. The slider (3) can cooperate with the drive part (22) of the unlocking member (2); The tail sleeve (4) can slide relative to the main housing (1) in the unlocking direction or the locking direction; When the tail sleeve (4) slides relative to the main housing (1) along the unlocking direction, the tail sleeve (4) drives the sliding member (3) to press against the driving part (22), so that the unlocking member (2) pivots around its pivot axis to the unlocking position; When the tail sleeve (4) slides relative to the main housing (1) along the locking direction, the unlocking member (2) can be driven to pivot about its pivot axis to the locked position.

2. The optical module connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The optical module connector also includes a cover (5) connected to the main housing (1), and the drive unit (22) is housed between the cover (5) and the main housing (1); The main housing (1) or the cover (5) is provided with an elastic abutment arm (17) that can cooperate with the drive unit (22). The abutment arm presses against the drive unit (22) so that the unlocking member (2) tends to pivot about its pivot axis to the locking position.

3. The optical module connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The optical module connector also includes a cover (5) connected to the main housing (1), and the drive unit (22) is housed between the cover (5) and the main housing (1); A first elastic element (61) is also provided between the cover (5) and the drive unit (22), the first elastic element (61) having a tendency to drive the unlocking member (2) to pivot about its pivot axis to the locking position.

4. The optical module connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, A second elastic element (62) is also provided between the locking part (23) and the main housing (1), the second elastic element (62) having a tendency to drive the unlocking part (2) to pivot about its pivot axis to the locking position.

5. The optical module connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The optical module connector also includes a cover (5) connected to the main housing (1), and the drive unit (22) is housed between the cover (5) and the main housing (1); The unlocking component (2) includes a shaft portion (21) that is fitted to the main housing (1). The shaft portion (21) is fitted with a torsion spring (63). The torsion spring (63) includes two abutment portions (631). The two abutment portions (631) abut against the cover (5) and the unlocking component (2) respectively, so that the unlocking component (2) has a tendency to pivot about its pivot axis to the locking position.

6. The optical module connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sliding member (3) has an avoidance hole (31) at the end away from the tail sleeve (4); When the unlocking member (2) is in the locked position, at least a portion of the driving part (22) is received within the clearance hole (31); When the unlocking member (2) pivots from the locked position to the unlocked position, the driving part (22) gradually disengages from the clearance hole (31).

7. The optical module connector according to claim 6, characterized in that, The drive unit (22) has a guide surface (221) on the side facing the main housing (1). When the tail sleeve (4) slides relative to the main housing (1) along the unlocking direction, the edge of the clearance hole (31) abuts against the guide surface (221) so that the unlocking member (2) pivots about its pivot axis to the unlocking position.

8. The optical module connector according to claim 7, characterized in that, The clearance hole (31) has a chamfer at the edge of the hole that abuts against the guide surface (221).

9. The optical module connector according to claim 6, characterized in that, The unlocking component (2) also includes a stop (24) located at the end of the drive part (22) away from the pivot shaft, the stop (24) protruding toward the clearance hole (31); When the unlocking member (2) is in the locked position, the stop (24) passes through the clearance hole (31) to abut against the main housing (1).

10. The optical module connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The unlocking member (2) includes a first body part (25) and a second body part (26) arranged at an angle, the driving part (22) is formed in the first body part (25), and the locking part (23) protrudes from the second body part (26). When the unlocking member (2) is in the locked position, the second body part (26) is approximately parallel to the unlocking direction or the locking direction.

11. The optical module connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main housing (1) has a recessed mounting space (11) for mounting the unlocking component (2) on one side surface. When the unlocking member (2) is in the locked position, at least a portion of the locking part (23) extends out of the mounting space (11). When the unlocking member (2) is in the unlocked position, the locking part (23) is housed in the installation space (11).

12. The optical module connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main housing (1) includes at least one pair of first limiting parts (13) spaced apart, and the tail sleeve (4) includes a second limiting part (41) that cooperates with the first limiting parts (13). When the tail sleeve (4) slides relative to the main housing (1) in the unlocking direction, the first limiting part (13) abuts against the second limiting part (41) to restrict the tail sleeve (4) from detaching from the main housing (1).

13. The optical module connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The optical module connector also includes a cover (5) connected to the main housing (1), and the drive unit (22) is housed between the cover (5) and the main housing (1); The unlocking component (2) includes a shaft part (21) that is installed in conjunction with the main housing (1), and the inner wall of the cover (5) is provided with an arc surface (52) suitable for pressing the shaft part (21).

14. The optical module connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sliding member (3) includes a main body (32) and a snap-fit ​​part (33) disposed at one end of the main body (32). The tail sleeve (4) has a first receiving groove (42) and a second receiving groove (43) that are interconnected. The extension directions of the first receiving groove (42) and the second receiving groove (43) intersect, and the extension direction of the first receiving groove (42) is parallel to the unlocking direction or the locking direction. At least a portion of the main body (32) is housed in the first receiving groove (42), the snap-fit ​​part (33) is housed in the second receiving groove (43), and the snap-fit ​​part (33) abuts against the inner wall of the second receiving groove (43) in the unlocking direction or locking direction.

15. The optical module connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The optical module connector also includes a cover (5) connected to the main housing (1), and the drive unit (22) is housed between the cover (5) and the main housing (1); One of the main housing (1) and the cover (5) is provided with a protrusion (15), and the other is provided with a groove (51). The protrusion (15) can be engaged with the groove (51) to fix the cover (5) to the main housing (1).

16. The optical module connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The optical module connector also includes a front housing (7), the front housing (7) includes a first abutting surface (71), and the main housing (1) includes a second abutting surface (16) that abuts against the first abutting surface (71). The first abutting surface (71) and the second abutting surface (16) both intersect with the insertion direction of the front housing (7) and the main housing (1).

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